RCC's Deep Professional Coaching Experience Draws Ryan Garvey

The decision of Ryan Garvey, son of former Dodger first baseman Steve Garvey, to leave USC for Riverside City College has left some scratching their heads.

But what they may not know is RCC’s reputation of a solid baseball program with an experienced coaching staff.

“From head coach all the way down to our trainer you’re talking about immense professional experience. It’s what makes us who we are,” Associate Head Coach Andy Rojo told Patch.

The graduate was drafted in the 15th round of the MLB draft by the Philadelphia Phillies, but turned the offer down to attend USC. He said recently he to focus on baseball with the hopes of being drafted in June.

RCC has won four state championships since 2000 and as recently as 2007, and has several players that are already drawing professional baseball interest, Rojo said.

If Garvey had remained at USC, he wouldn’t have been able to be drafted for three years or until he turned 21.

Rojo said Garvey has a strong chance of being drafted at RCC based on a few factors.

“If he can have a consistency this year and stay healthy there’s no question if he is going to be drafted,” Rojo said.

RCC is known for its strong coaching team, led by Head Coach Dennis Rogers.

“He’s coached at every single level in professional baseball except the big leagues,” Rojo said.

Garvey will also play in a tough conference.

“We’re the only non-Orange County team that participates in the conference. It’s the most recruited and the most drafted conference in the entire nation,” he said.

Other RCC players who have gone on to play professional baseball include Bobby Kielty, who won a World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2007, Greg Dobbs, a third baseman with the Florida Marlins, and Tommy Hanson, who is a pitcher for the Atlanta Braves.